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Earthlings 2.0 Podcast

Latest episodes

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Jan 14, 2025 • 28min

#92: Making EV Batteries More Sustainable

Greetings Earthlings! In this episode of Earthlings 2.0, we speak with Steven and Zora Chung, co-founders of ReJoule and CEO and CFO respectively. ReJoule is a company transforming battery diagnostics and repurposing used batteries for second-life applications. This innovation not only extends battery life but also reduces waste, helping pave the way for a sustainable energy transition. As we navigate the challenges of a more electrified world, from electric vehicles to grid-scale energy storage, ensuring the efficiency and safety of our battery systems has never been more important.Key Points:Electrification's Role in Decarbonization: ReJoule underscores the importance of extending battery life and enabling reuse as critical steps in reducing carbon emissions, particularly through innovative diagnostic technologies that enhance battery efficiency and extend their lifecycle.Challenges and Solutions: The discussion dives into the challenges faced in diagnosing battery health, such as time-consuming conventional methods, and highlights ReJoule’s solutions, including their electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) technology, which provides accurate results in a fraction of the time.Economic Drivers: The episode explores how the reuse of batteries can reduce the demand for raw materials, leading to cost savings and broader environmental benefits.Voices on The Show: Steven Chung, Co-founder and CEO of ReJouleLinkedInZora Chung, Co-founder and CFO of ReJouleLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:ReJouleLinkedIn🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Jan 8, 2025 • 40min

#91: Building Resilient, All-Electric Homes for the Future with Arch Rao

Greetings Earthlings! In this episode of Earthlings 2.0, we explore the transformative potential of home electrification with Arch Rao, founder and CEO of Span.IO. Arch shares his journey from Tesla to revolutionizing the electrical panel industry to facilitate the transition to all-electric homes. We discuss the technological innovations that make electrification more accessible and economically feasible, and why this shift is essential for decarbonization. Restoring Our Faith in Humanity this week is Marcella Connery, founder of The Kelsey, who is pioneering inclusive housing solutions for people with disabilities, demonstrating the profound impact of thoughtful, inclusive community planning.Key Points:Home Electrification's Role in Decarbonization: Arch emphasizes the critical role of home electrification in reducing carbon emissions, particularly through innovative technologies like smart electrical panels that manage home energy use more efficiently.Challenges and Solutions: We dive into the challenges homeowners face when upgrading to electric systems and the solutions Span.io offers, such as avoiding costly infrastructure upgrades with smarter, integrated technologies.Economic and Policy Drivers: Discussion on how current economic incentives and future policies could shape the adoption of home electrification, highlighting the potential for significant environmental and economic benefits.Broadening Impact: Arch also talks about how electrification extends beyond individual homes, influencing broader energy consumption patterns and utility practices to support a sustainable energy transition.Voices on The Show: Arch Rao, founder and CEO of Span.IOLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:Span.ioLinkedin Restoring Our Faith in Humanity: https://thekelsey.org/projects/🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Dec 31, 2024 • 27min

90: Powering Sub-Saharan Africa with Solar Solutions and EVs

Hello Earthlings! In this week’s episode, we explore the innovative role of solar energy in solving South Africa's power crisis. We’re joined by Sabatha Mthwecu, Founder of Solar Rais to discuss how solar systems are helping combat blackouts and offer solutions to the country’s ongoing energy challenges. Sabatha sheds light on the growing use of solar energy to support the grid, reduce electricity costs, and drive energy independence for homeowners and businesses. We also dive into the future of energy in South Africa, including the rise of electric vehicle charging solutions.Key Points:Solar Energy's Role in Combating Blackouts: Solar systems help mitigate blackouts by supporting the grid and reducing dependence on outdated, fuel-intensive machinery. Bill-Busting and Energy Independence: Solar panels are used to reduce energy costs, especially in areas with high electricity rates or unreliable power supply. Sabatha explains how solar helps homeowners and businesses save on electricity bills.Innovative EV Charging Solutions: Sabatha highlights the challenges of EV charging in areas with unreliable grids. Solar-powered charging stations are being developed to ensure that EVs can charge even during blackouts.Future of Energy in South Africa: The energy landscape in South Africa is expected to evolve with more inter-country agreements, increased access to solar energy through financing models, and catalytic finance initiatives aimed at accelerating the adoption of sustainable energy solutions.Voices on The Show: Sabatha Mthwecu, Founder of Solar RaisLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:Solar RaisLinkedIn🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Dec 24, 2024 • 24min

89: Revolutionizing Farming with Solar-Powered AI Robots

Hello Earthlings! In this week’s episode, we explore a fascinating intersection of technology and sustainability: the innovative application of robotics, artificial intelligence, and solar energy in agriculture. Our conversation centers on Aigen, a trailblazing startup developing autonomous, solar-powered robots that manage weeds without chemicals. By reducing agriculture's carbon footprint and helping regenerate soil—a vital natural carbon sink—this technology offers a path to healthier food systems and more sustainable farming practices.Key Points:The Challenges of Modern Agriculture: Usman discusses how farmers face mounting environmental and economic pressures, with industrialized farming contributing to soil degradation and pollution. Persistent battles with herbicide-resistant weeds perpetuate a harmful cycle of increasing chemical use.Aigen's Innovative Solution: Solar-powered autonomous robots equipped with advanced AI and computer vision mechanically remove weeds, eliminating the need for chemical herbicides. A "set-it-and-forget-it" model minimizes farmer intervention while maximizing efficiency.How It Works: The robots operate autonomously for up to 12 hours daily, using a straightforward design of solar panels, wheels, sensors, and mechanical arms for weed removal. They also collect data to provide actionable insights for improving farm operations.Impact on Farmers and the Environment: Aigen's solution boosts yields by reducing crop-weed competition, avoids soil degradation and ecosystem harm from traditional practices, and offers a scalable approach suitable for farms of all sizes.Voices on The Show: Usman Khan, Senior Data Scientist at AigenLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:AigenLinkedIn 🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Dec 17, 2024 • 34min

88: Community Solar Cuts Costs and Carbon for Anyone

Hello Earthlings! In this week’s episode, we explore the accessible and innovative world of Community Solar. This model allows individuals and businesses to subscribe to solar energy without installing panels. We’re joined by Vihann Kong, Senior Executive Director of Enterprise Acquisition at Ampion, to discuss how community solar projects democratize solar energy, making it feasible and financially beneficial for participants. Vihann sheds light on the rapid expansion and significant impact of these projects across the U.S., emphasizing their role in making renewable energy accessible to all.Restoring Our Faith in Humanity This week, we highlight the residents of Goulburn, Australia, who have pioneered the country’s first community-owned solar farm with a battery. This grassroots initiative, driven by local frustrations over government inaction, showcases how community efforts can lead to sustainable energy solutions.Key Points:Community Solar Explained: Vihann Kong discusses how community solar projects allow for greater accessibility to solar energy, with significant cost savings and no installation required.Expansion and Impact: Community solar has seen substantial growth, with installations in 44 states and Washington, D.C. The episode delves into how this growth is influencing energy accessibility nationwide.Economic and Social Benefits: The discussion covers how community solar reduces energy costs and supports local economies by creating jobs and fostering community development.Challenges and Future Prospects: Vihann discusses community solar’s obstacles, such as regulatory and logistical challenges, and the potential for future expansion and innovation in the industry.Voices on The Show: Vihann Kong, Senior Executive Director of Enterprise Acquisition at AmpionLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:AmpionLinkedin🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Dec 10, 2024 • 35min

#87: Decarbonizing Aluminum Through Upcycling

Hello Earthlings! In today's episode of Earthlings 2.0, we explore the cutting-edge realm of upcycled aluminum with our guest, Eric Donsky, CEO and Chairman of Atomic13. Atomic13 is making waves by transforming scrap aluminum into durable, low-carbon aluminum extrusions, reducing embodied carbon by an incredible 95%. We delve into the science behind this innovative process and discuss its potential to revolutionize sustainable manufacturing practices globally.Key Points:Innovative Upcycling of Aluminum: Discover how Atomic13 utilizes advanced recycling technologies to turn scrap metal into high-quality aluminum extrusions, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional manufacturing processes.Significant Carbon Reduction: Eric explains the process that cuts down aluminum's carbon footprint by 95%, a major leap toward greener production methods in heavy industries.Economic and Environmental Impact: We cover the dual benefits of Atomic13's technology—cost-effectiveness and environmental protection, highlighting how upcycled aluminum can compete economically with traditional materials while significantly reducing environmental impact.Future Applications and Expansion: Learn about Atomic13’s plans to expand its technology to other metals and industries, illustrating the broad potential of upcycling in global supply chains.Challenges and Opportunities: Eric discusses the challenges of introducing a new technology to a traditional industry and the opportunities for scaling up to meet global sustainability goals.Voices on The Show: Eric Donsky, Chairman and CEO of Atomic13 LinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:Atomic13🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Dec 3, 2024 • 34min

#86: Unlocking the Power of Soil for Carbon Sequestration

Hello Earthlings! This week on Earthlings 2.0, we dive deep into the ground beneath our feet with Yard Stick, a company harnessing the transformative potential of soil carbon measurement in sustainable agriculture. As the backbone of food production and a vital carbon sink, soil health is critical—but it’s often overlooked in broader climate conversations. Yard Stick is tackling this challenge with cutting-edge spectroscopy technology to make soil analysis cost-effective and accessible for farmers.In this episode, Chris Tolles, co-founder and CEO of Yard Stick explores the barriers to soil carbon sequestration, the economic challenges farmers face, and why effective measurement is the key to sustainable land management. From debunking myths about the limitations of harvests to uncovering opportunities for long-term soil stewardship, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the role of soil in the fight against climate change.Key Points:Revolutionizing Soil Carbon Measurement: Spectroscopy technology enables precise, cost-effective soil analysis, giving farmers actionable data to improve their practices and sequester carbon.Addressing Farmer Incentives: Many farmers face financial and systemic barriers to adopting soil carbon sequestration practices. Yard Stick focuses on bridging this gap by offering accessible measurement tools rather than agronomic advice.The Impact of Industrial Agriculture: Decades of industrial farming have degraded soil health, impacting food security and ecosystem stability. Soil regeneration is essential for a sustainable agricultural future.The Path Forward: Long-term thinking and robust measurement tools are foundational for addressing soil health challenges, ensuring the agriculture sector plays its part in mitigating climate change.Voices on The Show: Chris Tolles, CEO and co-founder of Yard Stick PBCLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:Yard Stick PBCLinkedIn🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Nov 26, 2024 • 27min

#85: Powering Utilities with Big Data for Cleaner Grids

Hello Earthlings! This week on Earthlings 2.0, we connect with Camus Energy, a company providing a cutting-edge grid orchestration platform designed to help utilities operate and build a reliable, affordable, and zero-carbon grid. Their technology platform enables utilities to navigate the transition to a two-way grid—one that integrates local renewable generation and customer flexibility to achieve decarbonization and affordability goals.In this episode, Astrid Atkinson, CEO and co-founder of Camus Energy, discusses how their software integrates diverse data sources to provide utilities with a comprehensive view of their grid. She explains how this integration allows utilities to manage the growing complexity of distributed energy resources like rooftop solar, EV charging, and virtual power plants while also preparing for increasing loads due to electrification.Key Points:Utility Empowerment: Camus Energy’s technology equips utilities with a comprehensive view of their grid, allowing them to optimize local resources.Data Integration: By consolidating information from multiple sources, Camus Energy facilitates seamless management of grid operations.Policy & Standards Matter: Data standardization and innovative policies are essential for scaling resilient and zero-carbon grid solutions.Climate Resilience: A stronger, more reliable grid is critical to withstand increasing climate-related disruptions, and swift action is required.Voices on The Show: Astrid Atkinson, CEO and co-founder of Camus EnergyLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:Camus Energy LinkedIn🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Nov 19, 2024 • 25min

#84: Closing the Loop with Plastic Waste with Enzyme Recycling

Hello Earthlings! This week on Earthlings 2.0, we explore an exciting breakthrough in recycling with Emmanuel Ladent, CEO of Carbios, a French biotech company that’s revolutionizing how we handle plastic waste. As the world grapples with plastic pollution, Carbios has developed a game-changing enzymatic process that breaks down PET plastics and textiles to their base components, allowing for high-quality recycling without losing material integrity. Emmanuel explains how this biological solution is different from traditional methods and how it could provide a truly circular solution to the plastics and textile industries, paving the way for sustainable, waste-free production.We also discuss how Carbios is helping the fashion industry transition from linear to circular, addressing the challenge of microplastics and waste in apparel. Through partnerships with global brands like L'Oréal, Nestlé, and PepsiCo, Carbios is making strides in creating closed-loop systems for plastic and textile waste, ensuring that materials are recycled back into products of the same quality as new ones. Emmanuel highlights how this technology could have a profound impact on reducing CO2 emissions and promoting sustainability in various industries.Key Points:Enzymatic Recycling Technology: Carbios uses a natural enzyme optimized to break down PET plastics and textiles into their basic components in just a few hours, offering a faster and more sustainable alternative to chemical recycling methods.High-Quality, Circular Recycling: Unlike traditional methods, Carbios’ process ensures that recycled materials are of the same quality as virgin plastic, creating a closed-loop system where plastics and textiles can be recycled repeatedly without losing quality.Sustainability and CO2 Reduction: The enzymatic process requires lower energy consumption compared to traditional recycling and offers a significant 90% reduction in CO2 emissions compared to virgin plastic production, making it a sustainable solution.Broad Industry Impact: Carbios is working with leading brands in cosmetics, food, and apparel to implement its technology, helping industries transition to a circular economy by recycling polyester and PET waste into high-quality, reusable materials.Voices on The Show: Emmanuel Ladent, CEO of CarbiosLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:Carbios LinkedIn🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/
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Nov 12, 2024 • 33min

#83: Capturing Carbon with Direct Air Capture

Hello Earthlings! Today, we're diving into a pioneering approach to carbon capture with direct air capture (DAC), a technology that pulls CO₂ directly from the atmosphere. While DAC alone can’t reverse climate change, it could be instrumental in maintaining critical temperature limits if it scales up efficiently. Host Lisa Ann Pinkerton interviews Anca Timofte, CEO and co-founder of Holocene, whose innovative, low-energy DAC method has secured a $10 million contract with Google. Anca explains how Holocene’s process leverages chemical reactions to trap CO₂ at low temperatures, maximizing efficiency and minimizing energy use. With plans for commercial-scale plants in the early 2030s, Anca envisions DAC as a crucial component in global carbon reduction efforts. Restoring Our Faith in Humanity this week is the inspiring story of Mr. Trash Wheel, a solar and hydro-powered trash interceptor transforming Baltimore's waterways. This quirky, googly-eyed invention reminds us that every action counts in the fight for a sustainable future.Key PointsDirect Air Capture (DAC) Technology: Anca Timofte, CEO and co-founder of Holocene, discusses how DAC can remove CO₂ directly from the atmosphere. This technology isn’t a total solution to climate change but could play a crucial role in reducing atmospheric carbon if scaled effectively.Path to Commercialization: Holocene is preparing to scale its DAC technology with a commercial plant expected in the early 2030s. Anca outlines the stages of development, from pilot to demonstration plants, aiming for a meaningful impact on carbon capture capacity.Economic and Policy Drivers: The episode covers how financial tools, like the 45Q tax credit and government programs, such as DAC hubs, are supporting the growth of the carbon capture industry. These incentives aim to make DAC more viable and attract broader industry investment.Carbon Capture’s Broader Impact: Beyond simply removing carbon, DAC could make CO₂ a marketable commodity. This potential new market could incentivize further CO₂ removal, showcasing DAC as a tool for both environmental and economic impact.Voices on The Show: Anca Timofte, CEO and co-founder of HoloceneLinkedInLisa Ann Pinkerton, Earthlings 2.0 Host, CEO of Technica Communications, and Founder of Women in Cleantech and Sustainability LinkedIn: Lisa Ann PinkertonX - Lisa Ann Pinkerton Instagram - @LisiAnniTechnica Communications Women in Cleantech and SustainabilityWeb Resources:Holocene Linkedin🚀 Calling all Earthlings…  Visit our website for more episodes!https://earthlingspodcast.com/ Earthlings 2.0 Newsletter Sign up to our newsletter for the latest news on the most exciting technology and research shaping our futures! https://theearthlingspodcast.substack.com/Podcast Listener Survey We want to learn more about you! It’ll take just a few moments to complete our survey. Thank you for helping us make your listening experience the best it can be!https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1QjZGBcv41Kgl4TbKEP2US-SiooH_R9812UBapuqudFs/editSupport the Earthlings 2.0 Production on Patreon! http://patreon.com/TheEarthlingsPodcast Earthlings 2.0 Socials LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/earthlings-podcastInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/earthlingspod/Facebook Page - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086533328643X - https://mobile.twitter.com/earthlingspodThanks to Resource Labs for having us on the network!https://resourcelabs.co/

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